Skip the morning rush with these easy Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats! This healthy banana recipe is a delicious and convenient way to start your day, packed with flavor and nutrition. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare this satisfying breakfast.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Rolled Oats: Do not use instant oats; steel-cut oats will result in a chewier texture.
- Milk: Any milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond, soy, or oat milk) works well.
- Peanut Butter: Use creamy or crunchy peanut butter. Almond butter or cashew butter are good alternatives.
- Banana: Ripe bananas are best for natural sweetness.
- Chia Seeds: Essential for thickening. Flax seeds can be used but may alter the texture slightly.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup or honey. Adjust to your taste.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup mashed ripe banana
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional, adjust to taste)
- Pinch of salt (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
- Servings: 1
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (depending on ingredients)
- Tools Needed: Jar or airtight container, spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Dry Ingredients
Add rolled oats, chia seeds, and a pinch of salt (if using) to your jar or airtight container. Gently stir them together. This ensures even distribution of the seeds.
2. Mash the Banana
In a separate small bowl, mash the ripe banana with a fork until smooth. You can leave a few small lumps if you prefer a chunkier texture in your healthy banana recipe.
3. Add Wet Ingredients
Pour in the milk, mashed banana, peanut butter, and maple syrup (if using) into the oat mixture. Stir everything thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the peanut butter is incorporated.
4. Chill Overnight
Cover the jar or container tightly. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or ideally, overnight. This allows the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken.
5. Serve and Enjoy
In the morning, give your Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats a quick stir. You can add extra banana slices, a drizzle of peanut butter, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts before serving. Enjoy your quick and healthy banana recipe breakfast!
Variation Ideas:
- Chocolatey Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder and a few chocolate chips.
- Berry Boost: Incorporate a handful of fresh or frozen berries.
- Nutty Crunch: Top with chopped peanuts or other nuts for added texture.
- Protein Packed: Stir in a scoop of your favorite protein powder.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The texture may soften slightly over time, but it will remain delicious. You can enjoy them cold straight from the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use instant oats for this recipe?
No, instant oats tend to get too mushy. Rolled oats are best for the desired texture.
What if I don’t have chia seeds?
Chia seeds are important for thickening. While flax seeds can be substituted, they might alter the texture slightly.
How ripe should the banana be?
A ripe banana with some brown spots will provide the most natural sweetness and best flavor.
Can I warm up overnight oats?
Yes, you can gently warm them in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, but they are traditionally eaten cold.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
If you use certified gluten-free rolled oats and gluten-free milk, then yes, this recipe can be gluten-free.
Can I prepare this in advance for the whole week?
Yes, you can prepare several servings at once and store them in individual containers for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
